Deep Dives

Ikigai (生き甲斐) is a Japanese concept meaning "a reason for being", the deep sense of purpose that gives life meaning. While the West often represents ikigai as the intersection of passion, mission, profession, and vocation, in Japan, it’s far more personal and grounded in everyday life. It's not just about career goals or monetizing passions, but about the small joys, values, and connections that make life worth living.

In a world increasingly challenged by chronic disease, stress, and social disconnection, the Blue Zones; five unique regions where people live exceptionally long and healthy lives, offer a roadmap for thriving well into old age. This article explores the shared lifestyle patterns, diets, social structures, work cultures, and environmental factors that define these longevity hotspots, from the serene hills of Ikaria to the plant-powered communities of Loma Linda. By comparing these insights with the realities of modern first-world urban life, we uncover scalable, actionable strategies to weave Blue Zone principles into daily routines, city planning, and policy, all while examining how modernization is beginning to reshape these once-timeless regions.

In the US, the startup world often pushes founders toward raising massive rounds and chasing unicorn status. But in Europe, a different (and arguably better) playbook is creating multi-millionaires.